Psalms 140

In this final group of psalms of David, psalms of praise and wisdom (Psalms 138–139, 145) form a frame around five psalms of lament (Psalms 140–144).

The psalmist prays for the Lord to rescue him from wicked people.

In this personal lament, the psalmist describes God's enemies and their evil plans. He prays for the Lord's protection and rescue, trusting in God's strength and justice. He predicts that fire will judge the evil (Psalm 140:9–11) and that he will be proven right and live in the Lord's presence (140:13).

snakes … vipers: These creatures portray the wicked as very corrupt people (see Proverbs 23:32; Isaiah 14:29; Romans 3:13).

The psalmist prays for God's protection (see Psalm 121), asking the Lord to keep him safe from the wicked's many plans.

O GOD the Lord: This title comes from combining the name Yahweh with the title Adonai (which means Master). See also Psalms 68:20; 69:6; 71:16; 73:28; 109:21; 141:8.

The psalmist prays for God’s judgment on the wicked.

The psalmist asks for burning coals to fall on his enemies and for them to be thrown into the miry pits, so that they cannot attack again. This language hints at the New Testament teachings on hell (see Matthew 5:22, 29–30; 10:28; 18:9; Mark 9:43–47; Luke 12:5; James 3:6; 2 Peter 2:4).